Novel magnetic compression technique for establishment of a canine model of tracheoesophageal fistula

BACKGROUND: Clinically, tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is lack of effective surgical strategies. One reason is due to the lack of appropriate animal models of acquired TEF, which is usually complex and difficult. Recently, the magnetic compression technique has been applied for digestive tract anastomosis or vascular anastomosis in animals. In this study, an animal model of TEF in dogs was developed by using the magnetic compression technique, hoping to provide a new method for mimicking TEF. AIM: To establish a TEF model in dogs by using the magnetic compression technique. METHODS: Six male beagles were used as models with two Nd-Fe-B permanent magnets for TEF. The parent magnet and the daughter magnet were placed in the cervical esophagus and trachea, respectively. The anterior wall of the esophagus and the posterior wall of the trachea were compressed when the two magnets coupled. After 4-6 d, the necrotic tissue between the two magnets fell off and the parent and daughter magnets disengaged from the target location, leaving a fistula. Gastroscopy/bronchoscopy, upper gastrointestinal contrast study, and histological analysis were performed. RESULTS: The establishment of the TEF model in all six beagles was successful. The average time of magnet placement was 4.33 ± 1.11 min (range, 3-7 min). Mean time for the magnets to disengage from the target location was 4.67 ± 0.75 d (range, 4-6 d). TEFs were observed by gastroscopy/bronchoscopy and esophageal angiography. The gross anatomical structure of the esophagus and the trachea was in good condition. There was no esophageal mucosa or pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium at the site of the fistula according to histological analysis. CONCLUSION: It is simple, feasible, and minimally invasive to use the magnetic compression technique for the establishment of the TEF model in dogs.